BMW iX

The BMW iNEXT Concept has come alive as the first-ever BMW iX, an all-electric crossover that promises to be the most enjoyable electric crossover although the face deserves a lot of interrogation. Anyway, let's investigate.

The BMW iX, priced at 77,300 Euros plus additional costs, is the production version of the iNEXT Concept from 2018, fulfilling the concept's promise, unlike most concept cars with broken promises. Although BMW kept its promise of creating a production version of the iNEXT concept, the iX's design is still as controversial as BMW's designs of today since the current 4-Series Coupe.

A glimpse of its front view serves as a cautionary tale for Gen Z people because, thanks to its massive kidney grille and headlamps reminiscent of the pre-facelifted Jeep Cherokee, it's no doubt one of the weirdest cars to emerge in 2021. If you see one driving an iX, you'd better think twice before commenting on it by the looks because there's a bit more than it.

Controversial the iX's exterior is, the interior is a story-changer because the iX marks the debut of the new-generation BMW iDrive system. Running on BMW Operating System 8, the new iDrive system takes advantage of its BMW Curved Display and the rather annoying BMW Intelligent Personal Assitant with voice function as well as other noticeable features that will enrich drivers' experience. While getting salivated over the new iDrive system, the iX's minimalist interior is worth a challenge for baby boomers and millennials behind the wheel because you can't find buttons to adjust its aircon and volume as expected.

In terms of space, the iX is rather comfortable and accommodating for five people and in terms of boot space, it's surprisingly roomier than the Mercedes EQA or the EQB SUVs.

Armed with an electric all-wheel-drive system, the iX is prepped to take on all kinds of road conditions although the bulk of the weight made the iX mild to drive judging by the fact that its permanent total weight weighs over three tons.

In its top-spec form, the xDrive50's electric powertrain produces 503PS of power, which is less than today's M3 Competition, 765Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 4.6 seconds, and a top speed of 200kph, enough to eat a Toyota RAV4 PHV alive on the highway.

Keeping up with the challenges of the new normal, the iX features a host of driver assistance systems with the potential of Level 3 autonomous driving in the midterm. Armed with five cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, the iX takes advantage of its front collision warning system, Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop7Go, Remote Theft Recorder, and Parking Assistant for added peace of mind, whatever the reason.

While the design is a matter of concern for the iX, despite its concept car roots, its future-proof packaging is proof that this crossover is truly fit for the challenges of the new normal. If you're all in, consider the iX right away.

Photo: BMW AG